Amid the high resurgence of COVID-19 in Maharashtra, especially Mumbai, the state authorities have ordained new and stricter train travel protocols. All train travellers reaching the state from Kerala, Goa, Rajasthan, Delhi-NCR, Gujarat and Uttarakhand need to compulsorily provide a negative COVID report, tested by the RT-PCR method 48 hours before the travel. The administration has labelled these six regions as the ‘places of sensitive origin’ in terms of coronavirus infection, read reports. Besides this, a new SOP has also been established for travel in long-distance trains, from the listed states, to curb the virus transmission within Maharashtra’s limits.
COVID-19 guidelines for train travel
The state has re-instated strict travel protocols for all railway passengers travelling to Mumbai via long-distance trains. While a negative COVID-19 report has ordained as mandatory upon arrival, the state has also issued guidelines for commuters to maximise their safety.
In an order circulated by the state Chief Secretary on Sunday, designated authorities have been asked to ensure that all passengers are compulsorily screened. Only asymptomatic passengers shall be allowed to board Maharashtra bound trains. For this, the state government has asked the railway ministry to provide thermal scanners at all station exits. Other COVID appropriate behaviour, such as social distancing during boarding/deboarding and travel, also need to be practised strictly.
₹500 fine for not wearing a mask at railway stations & trains
Meanwhile, the Indian Railways announced on Saturday that it will levy a fine of ₹500 for not wearing a face mask at the railway station and train. This will prevent spitting and other similar acts, raising the overall cleanliness and sanitisation level. The fine too, will be charged under the authority of Indian Railways (Penalties for activities affecting cleanliness at Railway Premises) Rules, 2012, the order specified. It also stated that Railways can take immediate action for a period of 6 months till further announcements are made in this regard.
